By Ben Ngwakwe
Gombe State Governor, Muhammadu Yahaya, has been appointed Chairman of the Committee on Mitigation of Polio Recurrence in some affected states across the country by the National Economic Council (NEC) chaired by Vice President Kashim Shettima.
According to a statement by the Press Secretary to the Deputy Governor, Wilson Yakubu, the appointment was an outcome of the NEC meeting held at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.
Speaking to journalists after the meeting, Gombe State Deputy Governor, Dr Manassah Jatau, who represented Governor Yahaya, said the appointment was due to the governor’s contributions as Chairman of the Northern States Governors’ Forum and his significant achievements in the health sector, particularly in vaccination.
The Deputy Governor explained that the NEC meeting discussed issues affecting states and the nation, including the recurrence of polio in five states: Kano, Katsina, Sokoto, Zamfara, and Kebbi.
He noted that the meeting was attended by prominent figures, including Bill Gates and Aliko Dangote, and that the government considered the issue a serious concern.
He also disclosd other topics addressed during the meeting, including flood-related disasters, the need for inclusive decision-making and implementation, and the importance of addressing cultural and philosophical barriers to vaccination.
He emphasised the need for research on local herbs for affordable medication and identified local sources for balanced diets to reduce malnutrition.
PERISCOPE NIGERIA reports that the appointment of Yahaya as Chairman of the Polio Committee reflects his leadership and commitment to healthcare in Gombe State and beyond.
